Entrepreneurs can bring their business ideas to the next level in the first annual EDC Launch San Juan Islands business plan competition, created by the San Juan County Economic Development Council. Participants will receive instruction in business planning and marketing – and some will win cash prizes to help launch their businesses. Thousands of dollars in cash prizes will be awarded to contest winners this year.

Included in the program for all participants will be seminars on business planning, marketing, and financing; opportunities to network; media coverage and advice from a team of experts.

It will start in October 2015 and run through early December 2015. The cost to participate is $95 (or $75 if registered prior to September 25). Visit www.sanjuansedc.org/launch for more information.